The Norwegian capital of Oslo has become a popular tourists’ destination in Europe, and the number of tourists visiting this Nordic city has been growing in the past decade. The appeal of the fjords and historic Scandinavian architecture are the trademarks of the city. Here we help you to navigate through the city and find the top ten things to do and see in the heart of Oslo.
Operahuset
For people who are enthusiastic about Scandinavian architecture and modern design, Oslo’s Operahuset is surely the best place to explore. The Operahuset, the Opera House, is the landmark of the city. It is situated right in the head of Oslo Fjords, and the angled roof is what makes this building special. Guests are invited to climb up the opera house and get a panoramic view of the Norwegian capital. There are various theatrical performances from time to time, make sure you check out the latest programme before you go.
DogA is the hub for those who are enthusiastic about art, design and architecture. DogA, which is also known as the Norwegian Centre for Design and Architecture, aims at promoting the the use of design in social aspects. In this artistic meeting place, you will be taken on a journey of local and innovative art pieces and designs. There are multiple artistic events happening every week, when local talents are invited to share their designs to the guests. Make sure you check out the schedule in advance.
Opening hours: Mon-Tue and Fri 10am-5pm; Wed-Thu 10am-8pm; Sat-Sun 12pm-5pm
Situated in the north of the city centre, St. Hanshaugen is one of the largest parks in the city. It is a very popular recreational space in Oslo. Many locals come here for walks and picnics. You may also walk up the hill and take a holistic view of the city. On top of the hill is an open air café that was built in 1936 and has been there since then. You can enjoy a cup of premium coffee and some Norwegian delicacies while appreciating the phenomenal view of Oslo.
A big shout out to movie lovers! The Film Museum is a perfect place for you to learn more about the film industry in Norway. The film museum carefully puts together artefacts and film segments from different eras to create a film archive, aiming at bringing you a perfect picture of the technological development in the Norwegian film marking industry. There are informative exhibitions and interactive games that allow you to indulge in Norwegian movie history.
Akershus Fortress is another landmark in Oslo and is easily accessible from the nearby Oslo Central Station. It is one of the most important historical sites in the Norwegian capital. The Akershus Fortress and the adjoining castle were built way back in 1299. Many parts are still preserved for tourists to get a glimpse of what Norwegian architecture was like centuries ago. From the top of the castle you can get a panoramic view of Oslo city and also the Operahuset. There are guided tours available for you get a more in-depth understanding of the history of Norway.
If you imagine everything in Scandinavia is cold and icy, then you will love Magic Ice. Everything used in this ice bar and gallery is made of ice, giving you a cold and freezing experience. This gallery consists of ice sculptures, using LED lights to give a perfect ambience. There is also a bar section, where you can enjoy a glass of wine or spirits below zero degree Celsius. What’s more interesting is that the cup is made of ice, which will surely add a memorable touch to your trip.
Perhaps one of the most anticipated events taking place annually in Oslo is the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony. This event is held in the Norwegian capital every year, and generates headlines in international newspapers. The Nobel Peace Centre gives you a detail account of the vision of the prize and an introduction to past winners. Through the exhibitions you will get an in-depth understanding on how different individuals have made changes in today’s world. There are also children’s activities available, which means children can also benefit from the visit.
If you are looking for an experience which you will never forget, then visit the Mini Bottle Gallery. This is the only one of its kind in the entire world and it offers the world’s largest collection of miniature bottles. There are more than 53,000 bottles exhibited in a three story building. There are many different colors and variations, which will probably surprise you. There are even bottles filled with fruits, snacks and even mice. This is surely a place where you can spend an afternoon and take as many picture as you want.
Another distinctive landmark in Central Oslo is Trefoldighetskirken, The Trinity Church. This historic church was built in 1858 and is one of the largest churches in the Norwegian capital. The church’s exterior uses red bricks, grey roofs, two towers and eight sided domes, with neo-Gothic architectural influences. If you are very interested in the religious background of this church or the architectural characteristics, you may visit the church on Wednesday.
Norway has traditionally been a great hub for different artists and genres, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art showcases the best contemporary art and design to their guests. There are both permanent and temporary exhibitions in the museum; the permanent installations are the sculptures by Richard Serra, Per Inge Bjørlo, Ilya Kabakov and Marianne Heier. There are also guided tours and art books which outline the development of contemporary art in Norway.
